Last Updated: January 8, 2025
Hospital staff have raised alarming concerns about drivers illegally using ambulance bays at major North Wales hospitals, creating significant challenges for patient transport.
A whistleblower from the ambulance service revealed that designated ambulance spaces at Ysbyty Gwynedd, Ysbyty Glan Clwyd, and Wrexham Maelor Hospital are frequently blocked by unauthorised vehicles. 🚗
“Getting to those bays is a nightmare due to the approach being blocked by staff and visitors alike,” the anonymous staff member explained. “All we want is to ensure safe passage for our patients which is sometimes proving impossible.”
Dr Sree Andole, BCUHB’s interim executive medical director, responded: “All parking bays designated for ambulances on our sites remain exclusively for their use, as these spaces are critical for maintaining patient safety and efficient service delivery. While this area is not used by emergency ambulances, it is still not appropriate for general parking. Misuse of these spaces can impede healthcare operations and our ability to respond effectively to patients.”
The health board is urging all drivers to observe parking guidelines and consider alternative transport options where possible.